Gaza: The Russian Foreign Ministry lodged an official protest with Israel following an attack by colonists on a Russian diplomatic vehicle near the illegal colonial outpost Givat Assaf, east of Ramallah. The incident has raised tensions between Russia and Israel, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding the safety of diplomatic missions in the region.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that the attack occurred on July 30. The vehicle, which belonged to the Russian Federation’s mission to the Palestinian National Authority, was clearly marked with diplomatic license plates and was carrying members of the Russian diplomatic mission accredited by the Israeli Foreign Ministry. The attack was reportedly carried out by a group of colonists.
Zakharova emphasized that the incident took place in the presence of the Israeli military, who did not intervene to prevent the settlers from assaulting the diplomatic vehicle. This inaction by the military has been a point of contention and concern for the Russian authorities.
The Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv has responded to the incident by lodging an official protest with the Israeli government, demanding accountability and measures to ensure the safety of diplomatic missions operating in the region. This development adds a diplomatic strain to the already complex relations between the countries involved.
